Step into Genoa, where centuries of maritime glory meet Italian elegance along the stunning Ligurian coast. This captivating port city charms visitors with its labyrinthine medieval streets, magnificent Renaissance palaces, and rich seafaring heritage that once rivaled Venice.
Wander through Genoa's atmospheric Old Town, where narrow caruggi (alleyways) wind between towering palazzi and surprise you with hidden piazzas and local trattorias serving authentic Ligurian cuisine.
The city proudly claims Christopher Columbus as a native son, and you can visit his reconstructed childhood home near the Porto Antico (Old Port) area, beautifully revitalized by architect Renzo Piano with Europe's largest aquarium, panoramic elevator, and maritime museums.
Architectural Treasures abound in this former maritime republic, from the striking zebra-striped Cattedrale di San Lorenzo to the opulent Palazzi dei Rolli, a collection of Renaissance mansions so magnificent they're UNESCO-listed.
For breathtaking views, climb to Spianata Castelletto, where the sparkling Mediterranean stretches before you and the city's terracotta rooftops cascade down to the bustling harbor below.
Genoa makes an ideal base for exploring the picture-perfect fishing villages of Cinque Terre and the glamorous seaside resort of Portofino, both easily accessible for unforgettable day trips along the spectacular Italian Riviera.
